What Makes a Great Consultant?

A great consultant is someone who loves helping clients succeed, is willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen, keeps their word, effectively manages expectations, and produces top-notch work. They make the right things happen. To be successful in the consulting business, it's important to have certain qualities such as intelligence, professionalism, excellent listening skills, confidence, and a great deal of experience without an ego. In addition, consultants should be emotionally intelligent and build trust through their character and skills. Demonstrable depth of experience is essential for a good consultant.

This should be evident from the first conversation with a potential client. Additionally, consultants should be team players who are able to develop collaborative relationships with colleagues and customers. Working well with others not only strengthens their skills but can also enable the growth of their consulting firm. Consulting firms come in all shapes and sizes. They range from small niche companies of less than 50 people to the four large ones that employ thousands of people.

If consulting is an area that interests you, keep in mind that it is a people-driven business and by having and developing key characteristics you can have a long, rewarding and successful career.

Léo Poitevin
Léo Poitevin

Certified pizza specialist. Incurable food evangelist. Tv advocate. Amateur travel lover. Hardcore pizza practitioner.